T-connector holding tool and method

#1. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates to a tool for the pipe fitting trades, particularly in gas pipe plumbing. In particular, the invention relates to a tool for holding a T-connector in position when torquing the perpendicular third nut on the T-connector to prevent damage to the other connections.

#2. Description of the Related Art

#FIG. 1 is an environmental, elevational view of a T-connector holding tool according to the present invention.

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an interchangeable head of the T-connector holding tool shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the bottom of the head.

#FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a handle of the T-connector holding tool of the present invention, matable with the interchangeable head of FIG. 2

#Similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the attached drawings.

#The T-connector holding tool of the present invention is useful in immobilizing a T-connector when torquing the third nut thereof. The tool will now be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1–4. A T-connector is a connector having three pipe connections generally used for splitting off a flow of fluid. For the purposes of discussion, a first and second connection are in-line or coaxial, forming the top of the “T” shape of the T-connector. The third connection is on a stem extending perpendicularly from the axis of the first two connections, forming the depending leg of the “T”.

#FIG. 1 shows a T-connector 20 that includes a body with three compression fittings disposed in the shape of a “T”, as described above. When torquing third nut 22 of T-connector 20, it is commonly required that some counteracting torque be applied to the body of T-connector 20, to prevent damage to flared ends (not shown) of copper pipes 24, 26 fit to the first and second nuts of T-connector 20.